Bob McDonnell on Drugs

Tough sentences for dealers; but new drug courts too

Repeat drug dealers are a major, perpetual cause of crime in our state. This year, I am proposing tough new laws to put away repeat drug dealers for longer periods of time. If these dealers are behind bars, they can't sell drugs to our kids, steal from
their neighbors or contribute to the tragic cycle of addiction that has stolen the lives of too many Virginians.

We can break that cycle when we combine tough sentences with other effective policies. In this year's budget I have provided localities
with a mechanism for obtaining authorization for new drug courts, at their expense, as long as they meet certain requirements and provide data necessary to evaluate their success. For those released from prison, who have learned from their mistakes,
we will provide them with positive opportunities for change through effective prisoner re-entry policies. Over 90% of offenders get out of prison, and we don't want them going back. We want more good citizens and fewer victims.